In the era of globalization and digitalization, cultivating future leaders with global vision, cross-cultural competence, and innovative thinking has become a key mission of higher education. From August 2nd to August 9th, 2025, the CTO School, in collaboration with the University of Graz, the Chamber of Commerce of Styria, and several well-known enterprises in Vienna, will jointly launch the "Global Innovation Leadership" study tour (hereinafter referred to as the Austria Study Tour). Centered on the theme of “Global Innovation Leadership,” the Austria Study Tour helps CTO School students explore global development trends, enhancing their confidence, courage, and sense of responsibility, while enhancing their cross-cultural leadership skills. The eight-day itinerary covers two major Austrian cities—Graz and Vienna. It includes a variety of dimensions such as academic discussions, corporate visits, cultural exchanges, and personal development, offering a well-rounded journey for both intellectual growth and personal enrichment.
Amidst the surging waves of globalization and digitalization, the cultivation of future leaders equipped with a global perspective, cross-cultural communication skills, and an innovative spirit has emerged as a pivotal mission for higher education. From August 2nd to August 9th, 2025, the CTO College, in partnership with the University of Graz in Austria, the Chamber of Commerce of Styria, and several renowned enterprises in Vienna, will jointly introduce the "Global Innovation Leadership" study tour program (hereinafter referred to as the Austria Study Tour). Grounded in the core philosophy of "Global Innovation Leadership," the Austria Study Tour is designed to assist CTO College students in delving into global development trends, bolstering their confidence, courage, and sense of responsibility, while simultaneously enhancing their cross-cultural management competencies. The eight-day itinerary encompasses two major Austrian cities—Graz and Vienna, with content spanning multiple dimensions including academic discussions, corporate visits, cultural exchanges, and personal development, crafting a dual feast of knowledge and spirit for the participants.
"Academia + Industry + Culture" Tri-Dimensional Value, Five Major Highlights
Top Universities, Engaging with Masters (Academic Exchange with the University of Graz and the Schumpeter Center)
At the University of Graz, a prestigious European institution with a history spanning over 400 years, participants will delve into the Schumpeter Center for Innovation Research. Here, they will engage in in-depth dialogues with leading scholars on technology transfer and the economics of innovation. Through case studies and workshops, they will gain insights into how Austria transforms university research outcomes into industrial competitiveness and experience the European model of "innovation-driven development."
Industry 4.0, Smart Manufacturing for the Future (Exploring AVL/Magna Automotive Technology)
Participants will explore AVL, the world’s largest automotive technology supplier, and Magna, a global leader in auto components, visiting their intelligent production lines and advanced R&D facilities. They will witness the practical application of technologies such as artificial intelligence and digital twins in automotive manufacturing. Discussions on technological changes and talent demands in the Industry 4.0 era will help participants grasp the future direction of the manufacturing industry.
Craftsmanship in Wine, Legacy of Oil (Shizhou Winery and Pumpkin Seed Oil Process)
Visit the century-old wineries and unique pumpkin seed oil workshops in Styria, for a full industry chain practical teaching experience from planting and brewing to brand operation. Participants can not only taste the unique flavors of the Alpine region but also learn how Austrian family businesses achieve sustainable development through the innovation of traditional crafts.
Count's Castle, Cultural Exploration (Experience of Fusion between Aristocracy and Gentleman Culture)
In the century-old castle on the outskirts of Vienna, participants will journey through time to experience the ancient European aristocratic lifestyle. Guided tours of the castle’s architecture will unveil the legacy of European aristocratic culture, bringing history from the books to reality and feeling the clash and integration of the European feudal era and modern civilization.
Chinese Enterprises Going Global, Global Vision (Case Study of Huawei/BYD Internationalization)
Participants will visit Chinese institutions such as the Huawei European Research Institute or the BYD Exhibition Center to analyze the internationalization strategies of leading Chinese enterprises. Through executive roundtable discussions on topics such as internationalization strategy and cross-cultural management, participants will foster a global perspective and sharpen their business insight.
The Austria Study Tour emphasizes the combination of theory and practice, helping participants understand opportunities and challenges under globalization from multiple perspectives through seminars, workshops, and real-case sharing. Morning wellness sessions and cross-cultural immersion activities further enhance participants’ physical and mental well-being, and broaden their international vision. Ultimately, participants will receive a "Global Innovation Leadership" completion certificate awarded by the Ambassador to Austria, bringing this unforgettable study tour to a perfect close.
We believe the Austria “Global Innovation Leadership” Study Tour is more than an academic journey — it’s a transformative experience for both mind and spirit. Here, participants will discern trends in the current of world development, hone their abilities in cross-cultural exchanges, draw wisdom from corporate practice, and find strength in mind and body cultivation. We hope each participant will discover their own global leadership code in this land of wisdom and vitality, becoming a mainstay in promoting global progress!